BOSTON (WWLP) – 22News visited the “Watertown Strong” blood drive Saturday in honor of Officer Dic Donohue, who was shot during intense gunfire with the accused marathon bombing suspects just one year ago. It is because of generous blood donations that Officer Donohue is still alive today.

You’ve heard of the phrase “Boston Strong,” but on this day, the people of Watertown wanted to demonstrate their resilience in a unique way, by donating blood.

Michael Schaeffer, a blood drive assistant, told 22News, “Being a part of the Watertown community, I wanted to come in and show my support, not only for Watertown, the Watertown Police, but also for the American Red Cross.”

Every two seconds, someone in the country is in need of blood and that’s why people from Boston, Watertown and across Massachusetts are doing their part to help the community heal. The American Red Cross, along with Watertown and Mount Auburn Hospital, set up a “Watertown Strong” blood drive in honor of Officer Dic Donohue who was shot during chaotic gunfire with the Tsarnaev brothers. It is because of generous blood donations that Officer Donahue is standing strong today.

“When we have tragedies we do see a large influx of people coming out, but it’s something that needs to be done on a daily basis. We have to constantly continue to collect blood so we can keep the supply up to safe levels,” said Jon Schafer, an American Red Cross member.

As marathon runners anticipate crossing the finish line on Monday, the American Red Cross, along with Mount Auburn Hospital, have a goal they want to reach as well.

Michael O’Connell, Vice President of Mount Auburn Hospital told 22News, “We’re hoping to get about 150 units. (Are you close to that whole?) We are. We will either hit it or surpass it.”

At the end of the day, the American Red Cross and Mount Auburn Hospital did beat that goal-together they received 152 units of blood which they say is a fantastic way to ring in the Boston Marathon.